At Meta Mechanics, we recently completed a rear brake pad replacement on an Audi SQ6, and during our inspection, we identified a few key issues that needed addressing to ensure the vehicle’s braking system operates at its best. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what we found, the impact of these issues, and the solutions we implemented to restore optimal performance and safety.
Issue Identified:
Issue #1: Significantly Worn Rear Brake Pads
- What We Found: The rear brake pads on the Audi SQ6 were worn to an unsafe level, well below the minimum thickness recommended by Audi. This compromises braking performance, increases stopping distances, and can cause damage to other components of the brake system, such as the rotors.
- Solution: We replaced the worn brake pads with high-quality, OEM-spec brake pads specifically designed for the Audi SQ6. These new pads restore optimal braking power, ensuring that the vehicle performs safely and efficiently.
Issue #2: Glazed Brake Pads
- What We Found: The brake pads had become glazed—meaning the surface of the pads had hardened and smoothed out due to excessive heat. This reduces friction, causes poor braking performance, and leads to increased brake noise and vibration.
- Solution: We replaced the glazed pads with fresh, high-performance brake pads designed for better heat resistance and smoother braking. Additionally, we addressed the underlying cause of the overheating, which can be caused by hard driving, aggressive braking, or poor pad quality.
Issue #3: Uneven Brake Pad Wear
- What We Found: During the inspection, we found that the brake pads had worn unevenly, with one side showing much more wear than the other. Uneven wear often indicates issues like a sticking caliper, uneven rotor surfaces, or improper brake pad alignment.
- Solution: We thoroughly inspected and cleaned the brake calipers to ensure they were functioning properly and moving freely. We also checked the alignment and suspension to make sure everything was in order. After cleaning and lubricating the components, we installed the new pads, ensuring they made even contact with the rotors for balanced wear and optimal braking efficiency.
Issue #4: Rust and Scoring on Brake Rotors
- What We Found: The rear brake rotors showed signs of light rust and scoring, which can happen due to moisture exposure, corrosion, or dirt accumulation. Scored or rusted rotors can cause uneven braking, increased noise, and premature wear on the new brake pads.
- Solution: We resurfaced the brake rotors to smooth out the surface and remove the rust and scoring. This ensures that the new brake pads make proper contact, resulting in smoother braking and reducing the risk of premature wear. In cases where the rotors are too damaged, replacement may be necessary, but in this instance, resurfacing was sufficient.
Issue #5: Contaminated Brake Fluid
- What We Found: The brake fluid was found to be contaminated, which can happen over time as moisture and debris enter the brake system. Contaminated brake fluid reduces braking efficiency, can cause brake fade, and accelerates corrosion of internal brake components.
- Solution: We performed a full brake fluid flush, replacing the old, contaminated fluid with fresh, high-quality brake fluid that meets Audi’s specifications. This helps maintain braking performance and protects the braking system from corrosion and wear.
Audi SQ6 Inspection of Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ6 Removal of Rear Wheels
Audi SQ6 Removal of Old Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ6 Inspection of Rear Brake Rotors for Damage or Wear
Audi SQ6 Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement (if necessary)
Audi SQ6 Cleaning of Brake Components (Calipers, Rotors, etc.)
Audi SQ6 Lubrication of Caliper Slides and Hardware
Audi SQ6 Installation of New Rear Brake Pads
Audi SQ6 Brake Pad Bedding-In Process
Audi SQ6 Reinstallation of Rear Wheels and Torque Check
